According to State Farm Insurance, around 250,000 homes are damaged by frozen pipes each year. As the water inside these pipes expands, it can cause pipes to break and floods to occur. While extremely cold winters in Centerville can cause this to occur to anyone, there are things you can do to prevent frozen pipes from happening. The steps below may be able to prevent frozen pipes and flooding this winter.
#1: Drain outdoor water
It doesn’t take a plumber to figure out that outdoor pipes are more susceptible to freezing. Take some time to drain sprinkler supply lines, swimming pools, and outdoor hose bibs.
#2: Install pipe sleeves or heat tape to exposed pipes
It’s critical to insulate any pipes in your property that are exposed. Use heat tape or pipe sleeves to provide an extra layer of protection from chilly weather.
#3: Monitor your thermostat
Break the habit of turning off your thermostat to save money in the winter. Make sure your thermostat is not set any lower than 55 degrees, especially if you go on vacation.
#4: Consider adding insulation
Are your basement, attic, or crawl space in need of insulation? If so, you should consider adding some. This purchase won’t just lower the possibility of broken or frozen pipes, it will also help lessen the blow of utility bill costs.
#5: Be prepared
If you see a small trickle when you open a faucet, you may have a frozen pipe on your hands. Keep the faucet open and apply heat, either with an electric heating pad or hair dryer, to the pipe. (Do not use an open flame device.) Maintain heat until water pressure returns.
If you do experience broken pipes in your home or business property this winter, contact Paul Davis Restoration of Utah as soon as possible. Our water restoration services can provide immediate assistance and get you back on your feet soon.